Bi-polar surgical instrument

ABSTRACT

A surgical device is disclosed that comprises a shaft member and a pair of electrodes. The shaft member has a pair of electrode channels that open at the distal end of the shaft member, wherein the electrode channels are positioned adjacent to one another. The pair of electrodes are configured to deliver energy, and one of the pair of electrodes are configured to be disposed in each electrode channel such that distal ends of each of the electrodes are arranged to protrude from the distal end of the shaft member. The shaft member further includes at least one lumen opening at the distal end of the shaft member.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 61/695,411, filed Aug. 31, 2012, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to surgical devices, in particular,surgical devices that employ a bi-polar surgical device that is suitedfor microsurgical applications such as neurosurgical and spinal surgicalprocedures, while minimizing thermal impact to surrounding tissue.

BACKGROUND

Monopolar devices have been employed for years to cauterize vessels andcut tissue depending on the frequency used. Monopolar devices operate byusing the patient as the ground pathway to complete the circuit.However, this arrangement is not efficacious in certain applications,such as neurosurgical procedures, as the energy moves through the entirebody, including, for example, brain tissue.

Bipolar cautery devices have also been employed to coagulate andcauterize tissues such as vessels. Bipolar cautery devices utilize twoelectrodes, with the intent to localize energy between the two poles ofthe electrodes, thereby minimizing energy delivery to adjacent tissuesand structures. However, one of the issues with bipolar cautery devicesis the ability to control the amount of energy to be delivered toaccomplish the desired coagulation or tissue welding, depending on theapplication. Less energy is required the closer the electrodes arepositioned together. However, it is undesirable to have the electrodescontact each other directly, as when this happens, no energy is beingdelivered to the intended tissues and no coagulation/cautery occurs tothe intended tissue. If the electrodes are spaced too far apart, moreenergy is required to achieve coagulation, which can lead to collateraltissue damage.

In certain applications, such as in neurosurgical applications, it isdesirable to deliver as low an amount of energy as possible whenattempting to mitigate a bleeding vessel to prevent collateral tissuedamage, especially around critical structures within the brain. However,for bipolar cautery devices where the poles are at a fixed distanceapart from one another, the amount of energy for a given application canbe too great for the intended target, thereby leading to undesirablecollateral tissue damage.

In certain instances, carbonization build up occurs on the electrodesdue to the heat created at the electrode tip; this carbonization is theresult of the tissue being “cooked” onto the surface of the electrode.This buildup compromises the effectiveness of the energy delivery toaccomplish coagulation or cauterization on the target tissue. As aresult, higher levels of energy are required to be delivered to theelectrodes to achieve coagulation of the bleeding vessel to overcome theresistance caused by the buildup. However, the energy levels of thenon-buildup areas will then be too high, causing unnecessary thermaldamage to surrounding tissues. Moreover, the conductive pathway may alsobe altered and flow in an unintended pathway, also causing unnecessarythermal damage to surrounding tissues.

It has been proposed to place sealed cooling channels in individualelectrodes to reduce the thermal build up at the electrode tip in anattempt to prevent the tissue from being “cooked” on to the surface ofthe electrode which can lead to thermal damage to collateral tissue.Traditionally, however, these electrodes have a size that is relativelylarge to accommodate the cooling channels therein, and thus, this sizerequirement to achieve effective cooling precludes such electrodes frombeing applied to finer tip electrode designs. Indeed, these large sizesrender such arrangements unsuitable for delicate microsurgicalprocedures, such as, for example, narrow corridor neurosurgicalprocedures for two reasons (1) the physical size of the electrode tipsare too large to delicately handle and manage the vessel and (2) thesurgical site is often only a few millimeters of a window to be operatedthrough and the electrode tips preclude visualization of the surgicalsite.

Another issue that arises with the use of bipolar cautery devices is aphenomenon referred to as “sticktion.” Sticktion occurs when, after avessel is coagulated and the electrodes are moved away from thecoagulated/cauterized vessel, part of the vessel “sticks” to theelectrodes. This often results in re-opening the vessel due to tearing,causing a rebleed of the vessel. To reduce “sticktion,” certainmaterials, such as silver, platinum, and gold, may be used with theelectrodes. Such materials, however, have proven to be of limitedeffectiveness and of minimal benefit.

One proposed solution to reduce the heat at the electrode tips andthereby reduce tissue buildup, reduce sticktion, as well as minimizethermal damage to collateral tissues, is to provide an external salinedrip into the surgical site. However, this approach often requires anadditional person in the surgical field to deliver the fluid.Additionally, in minimally invasive microsurgical procedures, thesurgical corridor and the subsequent target is relatively small, thus anexternal drip presents delivery challenges for the additional person andvisibility challenges for the surgeon whom is using the coagulationdevice on the intended tissue to be coagulated due to too manyinstruments and hands in the surgical field simultaneously therebyprecluding visualization at the surgical site. Moreover, it ischallenging for the assistant providing the external drip to deliver thefluid to the electrode tips and the necessary location within thesurgical site with any accuracy.

Another known bipolar coagulation device is bipolar forceps, whereby thetwo electrodes may be varied in distance from each other by the user. Insome versions of these devices, fluid may be supplied through theforceps' legs of the device. To accommodate delivery of the fluidthrough the body of the forceps, the device must be relatively largewhich makes it unsuitable for microsurgical corridor approaches.Additionally, as the fluid delivery is proximal of the electrode tip,instead, this prior art design relies upon the fluid to flow along thebody of each of the forceps legs to end up at the surgical site. Oftenin corridor microsurgical approaches the approach is not in a plane thatis conducive to the fluid tracking along the leg of the forceps device.Accordingly, the fluid is not necessarily configured to besimultaneously delivered directly to the electrode tip and the surgicalsite.

Another issue that occurs in typical procedures using bi-polar devicesis the variability of energy delivery at the distal tips due to tissuebuildup. More specifically, tissue build-up on the electrode tipschanges the resistance within the electrical circuit, i.e., the bipolardevice and the attached bipolar generator. As a result, in a typicalprocedure, a surgeon will need to continually ask a surgical assistantto adjust, i.e, turn up, the output of the coagulation generator so asto compensate for the change in effectiveness of the bipolar device, asthe procedure progresses. At some point during the procedure, theineffectiveness and/or the inability of the bipolar device to deliverenergy to effectively coagulate can no longer be accomplished by simpleadjustment of the coagulation generator, or the surgeon becomesfrustrated with the continuation needed adjustment of the coagulationgenerator. This frustration results in the surgeon having to remove thebipolar device from the surgical field and have a scrub nurse clean offthe electrode tips. Moreover, while the electrode tips are beingcleaned, the tissue/vessels that the coagulator was being applied to isstill bleeding, causing risk to the patient. Alternatively, ifadditional bipolar coagulation devices are available, the scrub nursemay remove the bipolar device from the electrical cord attached to thecoagulation generator, and replace the bipolar device with anotherbipolar device. The removal of the bipolar device from the surgicalfield and either cleaning or swapping it out with another bipolar devicegoes on repeatedly through an entire procedure.

However, once a surgeon has a clean bipolar device, the surgeon mustthen have a surgical assistant adjust the output of the coagulationgenerator again, i.e., turning the output down. As the clean bipolardevice is used, the instruction sequence of “turning up and turningdown” the output of the coagulation generator and swapping out thebipolar device for either cleaning or for a new bipolar device continuesthrough the entire procedure. This process is inefficient, increasesblood loss, which compromises patients' safety, and increases the lengthof a procedure.

Different vessels are different sizes. Thus, to maximize energy deliveryto the intended vessel, it is desirable to straddle as close to theoffending vessel as possible to minimize collateral energy dispersion.However, fixed parallel electrodes have no ability to easily accommodatedifferent sized vessels, and often leads to digging into the tissue (andhence thermally damaging collateral tissue) to straddle the vessel.

Currently, bipolar devices also cause line of sight issues, especiallyduring microsurgical procedures which also require working down a narrowcorridor. More specifically, the electrode ends of the bipolar of arenot visible in conjunction with the area of interest when the device isplaced down a corridor, as the electrode shafts and/or the handle of thedevice or even the user's own hand blocks the view. Bayonet designs havebeen employed to address the needs of the microscopic procedures butthese are of limited effectiveness in narrow corridor microsurgicalapproaches.

Another issue with currently available bipolar coagulation devices (aswell as monopolar devices), is the ability to control visibility withinthe surgical field to identify an active bleeder and address the bleederwhich is of unknown origin. What is needed is a single device whichprovides the ability to irrigate the entire field to push the blood awayfrom a suspected bleeder location so as the user may clearly see thesurgical field so as to locate the bleeder, as well as suction theexcess fluid from the surgical field so as to visually clear the fieldto enable the user to coagulate the offending vessel while minimizingany collateral tissue damage during coagulation/cautery of the vessel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described ingreater detail with reference to the attached figures, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a surgical system that includes a bi-polar surgicalinstrument;

FIG. 2A is an enlarged view of area 2 of FIG. 1 depicting a firstexemplary arrangement of a distal end of the bi-polar surgicalinstrument;

FIG. 2B is an enlarged view of area 2 of FIG. 1 depicting a secondexemplary arrangement of a distal end of the bi-polar surgicalinstrument;

FIG. 2C is an enlarged view of area 2 of FIG. 1 depicting a thirdexemplary arrangement of a distal end of the bi-polar surgicalinstrument;

FIG. 2D is an enlarged view of area 2 of FIG. 1 depicting a fourthexemplary arrangement of a distal end of the bi-polar surgicalinstrument;

FIG. 2E is an enlarged view of area 2 of FIG. 1 depicting a fifthexemplary arrangement of a distal end of the bi-polar surgicalinstrument;

FIG. 2F is an enlarged end view from a proximal direction of the distalend of the bi-polar surgical instrument depicted in FIG. 2E.

FIG. 2G is an enlarged view of area 2 of FIG. 1 depicting a fifthexemplary arrangement of a distal end of the bi-polar surgicalinstrument;

FIG. 2H is an enlarged view of area 2 of FIG. 1 depicting a sixthexemplary arrangement of a distal end of the bi-polar surgicalinstrument;

FIG. 2I is an enlarged side cross-sectional view of the exemplaryarrangement of the distal end of the bi-polar surgical instrumentillustrated in FIG. 2H;

FIG. 2J is an enlarged side view of the exemplary arrangement of thedistal end of the bi-polar surgical instrument illustrated in FIG. 2H;

FIG. 2K is a top view of the exemplary arrangement of the distal end ofthe bi-polar surgical instrument illustrated in FIG. 2H;

FIG. 2L is a top view of an exemplary arrangement of the distal end of abi-polar surgical instrument;

FIG. 2M is a side elevational view of the arrangement shown in FIG. 2L;

FIG. 2N is a perspective view of the arrangement shown in FIGS. 2K and2L, slightly modified.

FIG. 3A is an exemplary arrangement of a shaft member of the bi-polarsurgical instrument of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3B is an alternative exemplary arrangement of a shaft member of thebi-polar instrument of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4A is a third alternative exemplary arrangement of a shaft memberof the bi-polar instrument of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B is a fourth alternative exemplary arrangement of a shaft memberof the bi-polar instrument of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a partially exploded view of the bi-polar instrument;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the bi-polar instrument of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7A is an enlarged view of area 7A from FIG. 6 depicting a proximalend of the bi-polar instrument of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7B is an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the proximalend of the bi-polar instrument of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of area 8 from FIG. 1 depicting a ventfeature of the bi-polar instrument of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9A is an exploded view of an alternative arrangement of a bipolarinstrument;

FIG. 9B is a proximal end view of a shaft member of the biopolarinstrument of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10A is cross-sectional top view of the bipolar instrument of FIG.9A;

FIG. 10B is an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of the proximalend of the bipolar instrument of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a distal end of the bipolar instrumentof FIG. 9A.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a proximal end of a sleeve of thebipolar instrument of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an assembled bipolar instrument of FIG.9A with an alternative orientation of a vent aperture and fluidconnection.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a surgical system with a bipolarinstrument operatively connected to a fluid system.

FIG. 14B is an enlarged view of encircled area 14B in FIG. 14A.

FIGS. 15A-15C are elevational views of a bipolar instrument,illustrating various cannula lengths and configurations.

FIG. 16A is a partially exploded view of a stiffening adapter for usewith a bipolar instrument.

FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the stiffening adapter of FIG. 16Aattached to the bipolar instrument.

FIG. 16C is a perspective view of the stiffening adapter of FIGS.16A-16C and its relationship with a sleeve of the bipolar instrument.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the discussion that follows and also to the drawings,illustrative approaches to the disclosed instruments and methods areshown in detail. Although the drawings represent some possibleapproaches, the drawings are not necessarily to scale and certainfeatures may be exaggerated, removed, or partially sectioned to betterillustrate and explain the present disclosure. Further, the descriptionsset forth herein are not intended to be exhaustive or otherwise limit orrestrict the claims to the precise forms and configurations shown in thedrawings and disclosed in the following detailed description.

Described herein is a bipolar coagulation surgical instrument that isconfigured for aspiration. In addition, an embodiment of the bipolarcoagulation surgical instrument also provides for delivery of fluid tothe surgical field.

The surgical instrument may be configured to connect to an existingvacuum supply, which may include a vacuum system hose fluidly connectedto an existing vacuum source. The vacuum supply may supply a predefinedlevel of vacuum to a distal end of the surgical instrument. The surgicalinstrument may be configured to include an aspiration control deviceconfigured to selectively control the level of vacuum supplied to thedistal end, including while in operation in the surgical field.

Referring to FIG. 1, a bipolar surgical instrument 10 is illustrated.Surgical instrument 10 comprises a handpiece 12, a shaft member 14extending distally from handpiece 12 and electrodes 16, 116, 216, 316,416, 516, 616, 674 as best seen in FIGS. 2A-2N. Operatively connected tohandpiece 12 is an aspiration line 18, a fluid delivery line 20, and acautery supply cable 22. A secondary fluid supply, as exemplified by asyringe 24, may also operatively connected to handpiece 12.

Shaft member 14 may be configured from suitable surgical grade materialsso as to be selectively malleable by the user. More specifically, a usermay be able to selectively bend shaft member 14 for a selectivelycustomizable surgical instrument 10. However, the material for shaftmember 14 must also have a sufficient strength so as to hold its shapeonce a user bends shaft member 14 to a desired configuration. Examplesof suitable surgical grade materials include, but are not limited tostainless steel.

A vent opening 26 may be formed within a portion of handpiece 12. In oneexemplary arrangement, vent opening 26 is configured with a teardropshape. An aspiration pressure control valve 28 may be operativelyconnected to handpiece 12 to selectively vary the aspiration pressuredelivered through shaft member 14, as will be explained in furtherdetail below. In one exemplary arrangement, aspiration pressure controlvalve 28 is configured as a slidable sleeve 32 that extends around thecircumference of a portion of handpiece 12. However, it is understoodthat other configurations of aspiration pressure control valve 28 arecontemplated. More specifically, any configuration of aspirationpressure control valve 28 may be employed so long as aspiration pressurecontrol valve 28 is sized to cover vent opening 26 to provide fullaspiration pressure to a distal end 34 of shaft member 14. An outersurface of slidable sleeve 32 may be configured with gripping members(not show) to provide a frictional contact by a user. Similarly, anouter surface of handpiece 12 may also be provided with gripping members30 to facilitate grasping of handpiece 12.

Turning to FIGS. 2A-2N, various exemplary arrangements of electrodes 16,116, 216, 316, 416, 516, 616 and 674 and shaft members 14, 514, 614, and672 will now be discussed. FIG. 2A illustrates distal end 34 of shaftmember 14. As may be seen, shaft member 14 includes an aspiration lumen36 and a fluid lumen 38 that extend therethrough and are open at distalend 34. Electrodes 16 include connection ends 41 that are seated withinelectrode channels 40 (best seen, for example, in FIG. 3B) and extenddistally from a distal end 34 of shaft member 14. In the embodimentshown in FIG. 2A, connection ends 41 of electrodes 16 are sealed withinelectrode channels 40.

Electrodes 16 each include an irrigation tube 42 disposed therein thatdefines an irrigation lumen 44 therein that opens at a distal tip 46 ofeach electrode 16. Irrigation lumens 44 are designed to deliver fluid,such as saline, at a set flow rate. More specifically, the diameter ofirrigation lumen 44 may be sized appropriately to deliver fluid at a setflow rate. Irrigation lumens 44 are operatively connected to fluiddelivery line 20 within handpiece 12. Fluid delivery line 20 isoperatively connected to a fluid supply source such as, for example,saline.

Electrodes 16 are spaced apart from one another to create a treatmentpathway 48 therebetween and are angled away from aspiration lumen 36.The angle of electrodes 16 serves to provide increased visibility duringuse of the surgical instrument 10 as distal tips 46 extend radiallyoutwardly of a periphery of shaft member 14. More specifically,especially in microsurgical corridor approaches, as well as to improvethe user's visualization at the surgical site, the distal tips 46 are ina different plane than the shaft member 14, in a “up toe” configuration,thereby allowing a user to see the distal tips 46 while working in thesurgical field, even in a narrow corridor. Angled electrodes 16 alsoallow the user to apply the electrodes in a parallel manner to a surfaceof the tissue or vessel to be coagulated. As visibility of distal tips46 is improved, this configuration also improves accessibility to thetissue and provides the user the ability to straddle the desired vesselfor coagulation of the vessel or tissues. It also provides the user theability to maintain an optimal fixed distance between electrodes 16.

Aspiration lumen 36 serves to aspirate bodily fluid, as well as fluidexiting irrigation lumens 44 at distal tips 46 and/or fluids andmaterials exiting delivery lumen 38, thereby creating a clear surgicalfield. Optional fluid lumen 38 may be operatively connected to syringe24 and permits selective deployment of fluid to a surgical field, suchas, for example, saline or other fluid. By providing optional fluidlumen 38, the user is provided with an opportunity to control fluiddelivery at certain times during a surgical procedure, for example toselectively flush the surgical field. Optional fluid lumen 38 isdisposed on an opposite portion of distal end 34 than aspiration lumen36 such that connection ends 41 of electrodes are positioned betweenaspiration lumen 36 and fluid lumen 38. This configuration preventsfluid delivered from fluid lumen 38 from being immediately aspiratedinto aspiration lumen 36.

Fluid delivery through the irrigation lumen 44, as well as optionalfluid lumen 38, provides for coagulation in a controlled wet field.Moreover, the fluid from irrigation lumens 44 also acts as a conductorbetween electrodes 16 and in the treatment pathway 48, while reducingany heat generated between the electrodes 16 during cauterization tominimize collateral burning of adjacent tissue. Moreover, carbonizedbuildup at distal tips 46 is minimized, due to the irrigation providedto the electrodes 16.

An alternative configuration of distal end 34 of shaft member 14 isillustrated in FIG. 2B. Shaft member 14 in FIG. 2B may be configured thesame as that shown in FIG. 2A. Electrodes 116 are similar to that shownin the embodiment of FIG. 2A in that electrodes 116 also includeconnection ends 141 that are sealed within electrode channels 40 anddistal tips 146 are angled away from aspiration lumen 36. However,distal tips 146 are closed with end caps 142. Moreover, one or moreirrigation openings 144 are formed within electrodes 116. In oneexemplary arrangement, electrodes 116 are provided with a plurality ofirrigation openings 144. Irrigation openings 144 are in communicationwith an inner lumen formed within electrodes 116. Irrigation openings144 may also be configured with predetermined sized diameters so as todeliver a desired flow rate of fluid through electrodes 116. In oneexemplary arrangement, irrigation openings 144 are oriented away fromaspiration lumen 38 such that fluid is not immediately aspirated intoaspiration lumen 38 upon delivery.

Turning to FIG. 2C, a further alternative arrangement of distal end 34of shaft member 14 is shown. Shaft member 14 in FIG. 2C may beconfigured similar to that shown in FIGS. 2A-2B. Electrodes 216 includeconnection ends 241 that are disposed within electrode channels 240.Electrodes 216 differ from electrodes 16 and 116 in that electrodes 216are configured as solid members, rather than having an internal lumen.Distal tips 246 of electrodes are angled away from aspiration lumen 36,similar to distal tips 46, 146.

Electrode channels 240 are configured have a diameter that is slightlylarger than the diameter of the electrodes 216 such that a gap is formedbetween an outer surface of electrodes 216 and an inner surface 243(best seen in FIG. 3B) of electrode channels 240. The gap serves as anirrigation annulus to provide fluid to the surgical field, adjacentelectrodes 216. The size of electrode channels 240 are selected toprovide a self-regulating and predetermined flow rate. Optional fluidlumen 38 is disposed radially outwardly from electrode channels 240 andopposite aspiration lumen 36.

Another embodiment of distal end 34 of shaft member 14 is shown is shownin FIG. 2D. Shaft member 14 in FIG. 2D may be configured generally thesame as that shown in FIGS. 2A-2C. Electrodes 316 include connectionends 341 that are sealed within electrode channels 40, similar to thatshown in FIGS. 2A-2B. Electrodes 316 are also configured similar to thatthat arrangement shown in FIG. 2C, in that electrodes 316 are configuredas solid members, rather than having an internal lumen. Distal tips 346of electrodes 316 are angled away from aspiration lumen 36, similar todistal tips 46, 146, and 246.

Irrigation is supplied by fluid lumen 38. In the configuration shown inFIG. 2D, fluid lumen 38 is required, if it is desired that surgicalinstrument 10 provides fluid. In one arrangement, fluid lumen 38 may beselected to have a predetermined diameter so as to be self-regulating ata desired flow rate.

A further alternative arrangement of distal end 34 of shaft member 14 isshown in FIGS. 2E-2F. Shaft member 14 in FIG. 2E may be configured to begenerally the same as that shown in FIGS. 2A-2D. Electrodes 416 includeconnection ends 441 that are sealed within electrode channels 40,similar to that shown in FIGS. 2A-2B. Electrodes 416 may also beconfigured similar to that that arrangement shown in FIG. 2C, in thatelectrodes 416 may be configured as solid members, rather than having aninternal lumen. However, it is understood that electrodes 416 mayalternatively be configured with internal lumens, such as that shown inFIGS. 2A-2B and be provided with irrigation lumens positioned in eitherdistal tips 446, similar to FIG. 2A or along the length of electrodes,as shown in FIG. 2B. Distal tips 446 of electrodes are angled away fromaspiration lumen 36, similar to distal tips 46, 146, 246, 346. Further,in this exemplary arrangement, distal tips 446 of electrodes 416 arealso splayed apart as best seen in FIG. 2F. This configuration defines atreatment passage 448 having a first treatment passage portion 448 aformed by a parallel arrangement of electrodes 416. A second treatmentpassage portion 448 b expands outwardly from first treatment passageportion 448 a and is defined by electrodes 416 that are angled away fromone another. This configuration permits compression of blood vessels 450(shown in phantom) while cauterization is occurring.

Irrigation is supplied is supplied by fluid lumen 38. In theconfiguration shown in FIG. 2D, fluid lumen 38 is required, if it isdesired that surgical instrument 10 provides fluid. In one arrangement,fluid lumen 38 may be selected to have a predetermined diameter so as tobe self-regulating at a desired flow rate or may be controlled from anexternal regulated source.

A further alternative arrangement of distal end 534 of shaft member 514is shown in FIG. 2G. Distal end 534 is configured with an aspirationlumen 536, a fluid lumen 538, and electrode channels 540. Electrodes 516are disposed within electrode channels 540.

Aspiration lumen 536 is positioned below electrode channels 540.Aspiration lumen 536 is defined by a bottom wall portion 543 and abottom surface 552 of a land area 545. As may be seen in FIG. 2G, bottomwall portion 543 of aspiration lumen 536 may be beveled in a rearwarddirection. This arrangement prevents aspiration lumen 536 from beingoccluded during the simultaneous use of the coagulation function ofsurgical device 10.

Fluid lumen 538 is formed above electrode channels 540. Fluid lumen 538is defined by a top wall portion 553 and a top surface 554 of land area545. Top wall portion 553 of fluid lumen 538 may also beveled in arearward direction. This arrangement increases the field of view for auser, providing better visualization of distal tips 546 of electrodes516 during use. Fluid lumen 538 permits selective delivery of fluid tothe surgical field to facilitate and effectively manage the ability of auser to deliver any additional needed fluid to a surgical site in anin-line orientation, often also described as a coaxial arrangement.Examples of such fluid include, but are not limited to, a saline flushor delivery of a suitable hemostatic agent. However, it is understoodthat fluid lumen 538 is optional and may be omitted.

Electrode channels 540 are formed within land area 545. In one exemplaryarrangement, electrode channels 540 are each sized to have a diameterthat is larger than the diameter of a connection end 541 of electrode516, similar to the construction illustrated in FIG. 2C, so as to forman irrigation annulus. As discussed above, delivery of fluid throughelectrode channels 540 results in fluid, such as saline, being deliveredover the electrodes 516 for precision cooling of the electrodes 516while it is energized, as well as the tissue. This configuration willreduce “sticktion” whereby tissue being cauterized may “stick” to theelectrode, running the risk of creating tearing as the electrodes 516are moved away from the vessel. In addition, this configuration createsa low energy level that needs to be delivered to the tissue toaccomplish coagulation, as opposed to the higher energy level's used forprior art devices. For example, traditional bipolar devices use a 25-35unit setting on a generator to accomplish the necessary coagulationeffect. The current arrangement permits use of a much lower setting onthe order of 10 units, for example, thereby significantly improving thedosimetery of the energy and minimizing collateral tissue impact fromthe energy delivered to the tissue. Moreover, this configuration alsoreduces (and in some instances virtually eliminates) the traditionalperipheral energy spread of the energy field. The use of lower energymeans a lower collateral tissue impact. In certain surgical procedures,including, for example, neurological surgery, minimizing collateralimpact of the energy is very important to preserve impact to tissuefunction.

The delivery of fluid to each of the electrode channels (in any of theabove embodiments) produces a notable outcome. As mentioned above, thefluid may reduce “sticktion”. Further, as the fluid is delivered, thefluid absorbs heat generated by the electrodes, which is an unwantedby-product generated by the use of RF energy to the electrodes. Due tothe configuration of the electrode channels, the temperature of thefluid being delivered is within a desired temperature range that inducesand/or facilitates the clotting process. In one exemplary arrangement,the temperature is approximately 120 degrees F. The process describedabove, i.e., whereby the saline absorbs the heat generated by theelectrodes, is different than arrangements whereby saline is energizedby electrically charging the saline. Indeed, arrangements where salineis energized by electrically charging the saline is contra-indicated forprocedures that are utilized in brain tissue.

As an alternative arrangement, electrodes 516 may be sealed withinelectrode channels, thereby omitting the irrigation annulus 540, similarto the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2B and 2D-2E. In such anarrangement, electrodes 516 may be configured with irrigation lumens,similar to that shown in FIG. 2A. Alternatively, irrigation may besupplied through fluid lumen 538. Irrigation provided through suchlumens would also be heated by the electrodes, as described above.

Electrodes 516 also include distal tips 546. In the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 2G, distal tips 546 are configured to taper towardthe distal end of distal tips 546, so as to form a cone-shaped profile.This configuration provides improved visualization, as well as permits adesired orientation of electrodes 516 while working in a narrow surgicalcorridor. Moreover, this configuration creates an atraumatic tip,thereby minimizing the ability to unintentionally cut or pierce tissueor a vessel during use.

Electrodes 516 are positioned such that connection ends 541 are arrangedto be parallel to one another, thereby creating a treatment pathwaysimilar to treatment pathway 448 a. However, similar to the arrangementillustrated in FIGS. 2E-2F, distal tips 546 are splayed so as tooriented away from one another, thereby creating a V-shaped portion 548b to the treatment pathway. This configuration and orientation permitselectrodes 516 to straddle a vessel, thereby focusing and delivering theenergy of the electrodes 516 to the vessel to be coagulated, but not thesurrounding tissues. The bend at connection end 541 of electrodes alsopermits the electrodes 516 to be placed, when desired, parallel to avessel to be coagulated, thereby minimizing the damage caused by theelectrode 516 “digging into” to an underlying tissue substrate.

Referring to FIGS. 2H-2K, a further embodiment of distal end 634 ofshaft member 614 is illustrated. Distal end 634 of shaft member 614 issimilar to distal end 534 of shaft member 514 in that distal end 634 isconfigured with an aspiration lumen 636, a fluid lumen 638, andelectrode channels 640 that have a similar configuration as to thatshown in FIG. 2G. Electrodes 616 also have a similar configuration as toelectrodes 516 and are disposed within electrode channels 640.

For example, aspiration lumen 636 is formed below electrode channels640. Aspiration lumen 636 is defined by a bottom wall portion 643 and abottom surface 652 of a land area 645. As may be seen in FIGS. 2H and2I, bottom wall portion 643 of aspiration lumen 636 may be beveled in arearward direction. Undercuts 658 are in communication with bottom wallportion 643. Undercuts 658 cooperate with the beveled bottom wallportion 643 to prevent aspiration lumen 636 from being occluded duringuse.

Turning to FIGS. 2L-2M, a further alternative arrangement of a distalend 670 of a shaft member 672 is shown. Shaft member 672 in FIG. 2M maybe configured generally the same as that shown in FIGS. 2H-2J, in thatdistal end 670 is configured with an aspiration lumen similar to thatshown in FIG. 2I, a fluid lumen that is configured generally the same asthat shown in FIG. 2I, and electrode channels that have a similarconfiguration as to that shown in FIG. 2H. Electrodes 674 are disposedwithin the electrode channels in a similar manner as shown in FIG. 2H.

However, in the arrangement shown in FIGS. 2L-2M, electrodes 674 areconfigured with generally opposing engagement surfaces 676 thatcooperate to define a treatment pathway 680. Engagement surfaces 676 maybe constructed to be generally planar. In one exemplary configuration,best seen in FIG. 2L, engagement surfaces 676 are oriented such thatengagement surfaces 676 at tip members 678 are displaced further awayfrom one another than engagement surfaces 676 adjacent a land area 678of shaft member 672 such that a generally V-shaped treatment pathway 680is created. This configuration allows for electrodes 674 to straddle avessel, thereby focusing and delivering the energy of the electrodes 516to the vessel to be coagulated, but not the surrounding tissues.Moreover, the V-shape treatment pathway 680 also serves to accommodatedifferent sized vessels, represented in phantom in FIG. 2L. In oneexemplary configuration, the distance between engagement surfaces 676 attip member 678 is approximately 0.07 inches, while the distance betweenengagement surfaces 676 adjacent land member 678 is approximately 0.01.

As illustrated in FIG. 2M, electrodes 674 are configured as bent at 682.This configuration permits the electrodes 674 to be placed, whendesired, parallel to a vessel to be coagulated, thereby minimizing theopportunity for damage to be caused by the electrodes 674 “digging into”to an underlying tissue substrate.

As discussed above, an aspiration lumen may be formed below electrodechannels into which electrodes 674 are positioned. Aspiration, indicatedby arrow A is directed into the aspiration lumen under electrodes 674.The aspiration lumen may be configured as shown in FIG. 2G or 2H and abottom wall portion that defines the aspiration lumen may be beveled.While not shown, undercuts may also be provided.

A fluid lumen, similar to that which is shown in FIG. 2H may also beprovided. A top wall portion that defines the fluid lumen may bebeveled. This arrangement increases the field of view for a user,providing better visualization of distal tips 678 of electrodes 674during use. The fluid lumen permits selective delivery of fluidrepresented by arrow F (as shown in FIG. 2M) to the surgical field tofacilitate and effectively manage the ability of a user to deliver anyadditional needed fluid to a surgical site in an in-line orientation.The ability to simultaneously provide irrigation, aspiration ancoagulation in a common plane as a co-axial configuration whereby theirrigation channel is above the electrodes and the aspiration channel isbelow the electrodes allows the user to irrigate the surgical fieldsufficiently with a “flushing action” of the irrigant exiting theirrigation channel in the same plane as the electrodes while the surgeonaccurately controls the quantity of fluid aspirated from the surgicalfield so as to provide a clear field of view of where the actualbleeding vessel is originating from. This provides the surgeon theability to accurately and precisely deliver coagulation to the offendingvessel without damage to collateral tissues due to blindly digging,probing and burning the collateral tissues in search of the offendingvessel.

Referring to FIG. 2N, a further exemplary arrangement of a distal end684 of handpiece 672 is illustrated. The arrangement in FIG. 2N isgenerally the same as that of FIGS. 2L and 2M, except that the land area679′ has been slightly modified. Accordingly, identical elements havebeen given identical reference numbers as the arrangement shown in FIGS.2L-2M.

The land area 679′ is positioned between a fluid lumen where fluid F isconfigured to exit from the distal end 684 of the handpiece 672′ and anaspiration lumen that is configured to aspirate A fluid from a surgicalsite. Formed within the land area 679′ are electrode channels 686through which electrodes 678 protrude. Electrode channels 686 are sizedto be larger than a diameter of the electrodes 678 such that electrodechannels 686 may be used to deliver fluid therethrough as discussedabove in connection with previous alternative arrangements, such as, forexample, FIG. 2G-2H. The land area 679′ further differs from land area679 in that is extends further away from the distal end 684 of thehandpiece 672′, thereby enhancing visibility. In addition, a front face688 may be angled so as to slope distally outward from a top edge 690 toa bottom edge 692. As may be seen in FIG. 2N, bottom edge 692 ispositioned distally of the top edge 690.

Handpiece 672′ may be configured similar to handpiece 672.Alternatively, top wall portion 653′ and bottom wall portion 642′ mayonly include a slight bevel around the circumference of distal end 684of handpiece 672′.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-3B, exemplary alternative options for a distal endof a shaft member are illustrated. More specifically, as illustrated inFIG. 3A, distal end 734 of a shaft member 714 is illustrated. Distal end734 may be configured with a generally planar end face 733. Electrodeopenings 40 and aspiration lumen 36 extend proximally from end face 733.Fluid lumen 38 also extends proximally from end face 733. In thearrangement illustrated in FIG. 3A, fluid lumen 38 is positioned aboveaspiration lumen 36, but below and between electrode openings 40.Aspiration lumen 36 is contoured around fluid lumen 38. To reduce theprofile of shaft member 714 and improve visibility of electrodes (notshown), a portion of shaft member 714 positioned above electrodeopenings 40 may be beveled to create a generally planar surface 715.

FIG. 3B illustrates another alternative arrangement of a distal end 834of a shaft member 814. In this arrangement, distal end 834 may beconfigured with a generally planar end face 833. Electrode openings 40and aspiration lumen 36 extend proximally from end face 733. Fluid lumen38 also extends proximally from end face 733 and is positioned above,and between electrode openings 40, similar to the configuration shown inFIGS. 2A-2E. To reduce the profile of the shaft member 814 and improvevisibility of distal end 834, top surface 815 of shaft member 814 iscontoured around fluid lumen 38.

FIG. 4A illustrates the arrangement of distal end 534 of shaft member514, with electrodes 516 removed. As may be seen, fluid lumen 538 isseparated from aspiration lumen 536 by a land area 545. Land area 545 iscontoured around electrode channels 540 to form side channels 547 a, 547b. Side channels 547 a, 547 b permits fluid to be directed above andalongside electrodes 516.

FIG. 4B illustrates the arrangement of distal end 634 of shaft member614, with electrodes 616 removed. Fluid lumen 638 is separated fromaspiration lumen 636 by a land area 645, similar to that shown in FIG.4A. Land area 645 is also contoured around electrode channels 640 toform side channels 647 a, 647 b. Side channels 647 a, 647 b permitsfluid to be directed above and alongside electrodes 616.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of surgical instrument 10. FIGS.6-7B illustrate cross-sectional views of surgical instrument 10. Turningto FIG. 5, surgical instrument 10 comprises shaft member 14, a capmember 60, an inner sleeve 62, an outer sleeve 64, control valve 28, andelectrodes 16 (only one of which is depicted in FIG. 5). Shaft member 14is defined by distal end 34 and a proximal end 58. An irrigation opening65 is formed through a portion of shaft member 14, as will be explainedin further detail below. Irrigation opening 65 is configured tocooperate with a fluid supply. A vacuum relief opening 66 (best seen inFIG. 7B) is also formed through a portion of shaft member 14. Vacuumrelief opening 66 is configured to communicate with a vacuum chamber 82,as will be discussed below.

Cap member 60, best seen in FIG. 6, is defined by a body member 67having an open proximal end 68 and shaft reinforcement member 70 thatextends from a distal end face 71 of cap member 60. An inner seal mount72 extends inwardly from distal end face 71. Receiving grooves 74 (bestseen in FIG. 8) are formed on a proximal edge 75 of proximal end 68.Receiving grooves 74 are configured to frictionally retain slidablesleeve 32 of control valve 28, as will be explained below in furtherdetail.

Inner sleeve 62 is defined by a distal end 76 and a proximal end 77. Asealing collar 78 is fixedly connected to inner sleeve 62 at distal end76. As best seen in FIG. 6, sealing collar 78 cooperates with inner sealmount 72 of cap member 60 to secure sealing members 79 and 80 (only oneof which is shown in FIG. 5). Sealing member 79 is disposed betweensealing collar 78 and inner seal mount 72. Sealing member 80 is disposedbetween inner seal mount 72 and shaft member 14.

Inner sleeve 62 further includes vent opening 26. As will be explainedin further detail below, vent opening 26 cooperates with slidable sleeve32 to selectively cover and uncover vent opening 26 to vary the levelaspiration being delivered through aspiration lumen 36. As best seen inFIG. 6, vent opening 26 is in communication with a vacuum chamber 82that is in communication with a vacuum relief opening 66 (best seen inFIG. 7B) that is formed in shaft member 14.

Proximal end 77 of inner sleeve 62 includes openings 84 for introductionof fluid into surgical device 10. More specifically, a fluid connector85 (best seen in FIGS. 6 and 7B) is configured to cooperate withopenings 84 to deliver fluid through shaft member 14.

A sealing groove 86 is formed in the outer surface of outer sleeve 62.Sealing groove 86 is configured to receive a sealing member 87. Sealingmember 87 serves to provide a seal between outer sleeve 62 and outersleeve 64. An electrode opening 88 is formed through proximal end 77inner sleeve. Electrode opening 88 permits a connection end ofelectrodes 16 to be joined to a connection port 90, as seen in FIGS.6-7B. A proximal chamber 91 is formed within proximal end 77 of innersleeve 62. A radially inward extending rib 92 separates proximal chamber91 and vacuum chamber 82.

Surgical instrument 10 further comprises an inner mounting member 94that is positioned in proximal chamber 91 of inner sleeve 62 (as may beseen in FIG. 6). Inner mounting member 94 includes a body member 97having first and second sealing grooves 95, 96 and a distal sleeve 98having a slit 99 therein. An electrode opening 100 is formed in aproximal end of inner mounting member 94. Electrode opening 100 alignswith electrode opening 88 to provide a pathway for electrodes 16.Sealing members 101 and 102 are received within sealing grooves 96 and95, respectively, and provides a seal between inner mounting member 94and inner sleeve 62 so as to provide a sealed fluid pathway forirrigation lumens disposed around or through electrodes 216, includingirrigation lumens 44, 144, 240, 540, and 640. An additional sealingmember 103 is positioned between a rib 92 and a distal end of innermounting member 94. Sealing member 103 cooperates with sealing member102 to provides a fluid pathway that is in communication with fluidlumen 38.

Outer sleeve 64 is defined by a distal end 104 and a proximal end 105.Outer sleeve 64 may include a texturized surface so as to create agripping surface. An inner portion of outer sleeve 64 may be providedwith a receiving groove 106 that engages a detent (not shown) on innersleeve 62 to secure outer sleeve 64 to inner sleeve 62. Proximal end 105of outer sleeve 64 includes an aspiration mount 107 and an electrodeconnection mount 108.

Aspiration mount 107 defines a chamber 109 therein. A flexible washer110 is seated therein. Aspiration mount 107 is configured to receive anaspiration connection mount 111. Aspiration connection mount 111includes a flange member 112 that is positioned between distal andproximal ends 113, 114 thereof. An aspiration channel 115 extendstherethrough. Distal end 114 of aspiration connection mount 111 isextends through chamber 109 and is configured to selectively rotatewithin aspiration mount 107. A cap member 124 closes chamber 109. Thisrotation serves to prevent surgeon fatigue during use. Morespecifically, weight of an aspiration line operatively connected to theaspiration connection mount 111 will cause the aspiration connectionmount 111 to rotate so as to move the aspiration line automatically outof the surgeon's way during a procedure, as opposed to the surgeonneeding to rotate his or her operating hand in awkward positions to movethe aspiration line. Vacuum grease (not shown) may be positioned betweenflange member 112 and flexible washer 110 within chamber 109 to assistin rotation. When mounted within aspiration mount 107, aspirationchannel 115 is in communication with an aspiration pathway 116 formed ininner mounting member 64.

Aspiration pathway 116 receives shaft member 14 such that aspirationdelivered from an aspiration source through aspiration mount 107 iscommunicated to aspiration lumen 36 of shaft member 14. To isolate fluiddelivery from aspiration, areas 117 and 118 are filled with adhesive(not shown) on either side of a fluid channel 119 that is incommunication with one of openings 84. Electrode lumens 120 (one ofwhich is visible in FIG. 7B) are mounted within shaft member 14 anddefine electrode channels 40, which house electrodes 16. In theembodiments where fluid is delivered is delivered through electrodechannels 40 (e.g., FIGS. 2C, 2G-2I), electrode lumens 120 are eachprovided with an irrigation opening 121 that provides communication fromirrigation opening 65 to electrode channels 40 to permit irrigation tobe delivered around electrodes 16.

A second irrigation chamber 122 is provided between an outer distalsurface of inner mounting member 94 and sealing member 103. Irrigationchamber 122 is in communication with one of openings 84 through innersleeve 62, as well as an opening 123 that is formed within shaft member14, between irrigation opening 65 and aspiration opening 66. Opening 123is in communication with fluid lumen 38 and may be sized to provide acontrolled flow rate of fluid through the fluid lumen 38.

Connection port 90 is received within electrode connection mount 108.Connection port 90 is configured to receive an electrical source forenergizing electrodes 16. A proximal end of electrodes 16 is receivedwithin connection port 90 to facilitate delivery of energy.

Fluid connector 85, as best seen in FIG. 6, includes a connection end125, irrigation tube 126 and fluid tube 128. Irrigation tube 126 isconfigured to be received within one openings 84, with fluid tube 128being configured to be received within the other opening 84. Connectionend 125 is configured to receive irrigation line 20 and tubing thatconnects to syringe 24. Fluid from irrigation line 20 is deliveredthrough irrigation lumen 40, while fluid from syringe 24 is deliveredthrough fluid lumen 38.

Referring to FIG. 8, control valve 28 is illustrated and will beexplained. Control valve 28 comprises vent opening 26 and slidablesleeve 32. Vent opening 26 is in communication with vacuum chamber 82.In on exemplary configuration, vent opening 26 is configured with ateardrop shape, allowing the greatest amount of vacuum to be deliveredwhen the entirety of the vent opening 26 is covered. However, slidablesleeve 32 is configured to be selectively moved to cover or uncover ventopening 26 to immediately vary aspiration being delivered throughaspiration lumen 36. More specifically, in the configuration shown inFIG. 8, when it is desired to have full aspiration, slidable sleeve 32is moved distally to completely cover vent opening 26. A degree ofvacuum will immediately be delivered as sleeve 32 advances over thewidest portion of the teardrop shape (i.e., the bottom portion). As theslidable sleeve 32 approaches the tip of the teardrop (i.e., the topportion), fine application of vacuum may be applied.

As described above, slidable sleeve 32 may be provided with inner ribmembers (not shown) that are configured to frictionally engage receivinggrooves 74 to retain slidable sleeve 32 to collar 67. When it is desiredto reduce aspiration pressure, slidable sleeve 32 is moved in a proximaldirection to at least partially expose vent opening 26, thereby ventingvacuum chamber 82. When slidable sleeve 32 is moved so as to completelyexpose vent opening 26, there is no aspiration being delivered toaspiration lumen 36. This configuration is advantageous in that itpermits a user to immediately release tissue while in use, as well asreduce aspiration as needed. Due to its position on handpiece 12,slidable sleeve 32 is easy to manipulate with a single hand from anyorientation of the user gripping the device, also providing improvedease of use.

In one exemplary arrangement, vent opening 26 has a teardrop shape. Thisshape permits a controlled reduction of aspiration as slidable sleeve 32moves proximally. However, it is understood that other shapes of ventopening 26 may be employed. It is also contemplated that otherarrangements for operation of the slidable sleeve and vent opening maybe utilized. Further examples will be discussed below.

An alternative arrangement of surgical device 200 is shown in FIGS.9-12. FIG. 9A illustrates an exploded view of surgical device 200. FIG.10A illustrates a cross-sectional view of surgical device 200. While thedistal tip of surgical device 200 is similar to the arrangement shown inFIG. 2G, it is understood that any of the distal tip arrangementsillustrated in FIGS. 2A-2N may be employed, including, but not limitedto spacing of the electrodes, or the particular configurations of theelectrode tips.

Surgical device 200 comprises a shaft member 214, a cap member 260, asleeve 262, a control valve 228, electrodes 216. An optional stiffeningmember 215 may also be included. Shaft member 214 is defined by distalend 234 and a proximal end 258. An optional outer sleeve 264 may also beincluded. An irrigation opening 265 is formed through a portion of shaftmember 214, as will be explained in further detail below. Irrigationopening 265 is configured to cooperate with a fluid supply. A flushopening 266 is also formed through a portion of shaft member 214, whichalso is configured to communicate with a fluid supply. A vacuum reliefopening 269 (best seen in FIG. 10B) is also formed through a portion ofshaft member 214. Vacuum relief opening 269 is configured to communicatewith a vacuum chamber 282 (shown in FIGS. 10A-10B), similar to thearrangement shown in FIG. 6.

Cap member 260, best seen in FIG. 10A, is defined by a body member 267having an open proximal end 268 and a distal end face 271. An inner sealmount 272 extends inwardly from distal end face 271.

Sleeve 262 is defined by a distal end 276 and a proximal end 277. In oneexemplary configuration, first and second support collars 278 a, 278 bmay be fixedly connected to sleeve 262. As best seen in FIG. 10A,support collars 278 a, 278 b cooperate with outer sleeve 264, which ismounted therebetween. Alternatively, first and second support collars278 a, 278 b may be omitted and outer sleeve 264 may be over-molded ontosleeve 262. Outer sleeve 264 may be ergonomic in nature and includegripping elements on an outer surface thereof. In one exemplaryarrangement, distal end 276 of sleeve 262 may further comprises asealing groove 279. Sealing groove 279 cooperates with inner seal mount272 and distal end face 271 to define a sealing chamber that receives asealing member 280. In an alternative arrangement, no sealing groove isprovided and the sealing member 280 bears against a distal wall face 281with cap member 260 assembled thereto.

Sleeve 262 further includes vent opening 226. As will be explained infurther detail below, vent opening 226 cooperates with a slidable sleeve232 to define control valve 228. Slidable sleeve 232 is configured toselectively cover and uncover vent opening 226 to vary the levelaspiration being delivered through an aspiration lumen 36 (seen in FIGS.9B and 11, for example). Further, sleeve 262 is configured to allow auser to grip the surgical device at any ergonomically comfortableposition and orientation based upon the needs of the surgical procedure,while still allowing the surgeon to maintain control of the aspirationinfinitely and precisely. Vent opening 226 is in communication withvacuum chamber 282 that is in communication with vacuum relief opening269 (best seen in FIG. 10B) that is formed in shaft member 214. In oneexemplary configuration, vent opening 226 has a tear drop shape (seeFIG. 9A), to allow for more effective control of venting.

In one exemplary arrangement, the tear drop shape of vent opening 226 isoriented with the widest part of the vent opening 226 toward theproximal end 277 of sleeve 262. In this arrangement, the slidable sleeve232 may be biased toward the proximal end 277 with a spring member 283,shown in phantom in FIG. 10A. With this configuration, the slidablesleeve 232 is biased toward the proximal end 277 such that the surgicaldevice 200 operation is biased toward no vacuum delivery. However, otherexemplary configurations of the interaction of the slidable sleeve andvent opening are contemplated, and will be discussed in further detailbelow.

In one exemplary configuration, proximal end 277 of sleeve 262 includesan integrally formed hub member 263, allowing for ease of manufacture.However, it is understood that hub member 263 and sleeve 262 may beformed as separate elements without departing from the disclosure. Hubmember 263 is generally hollow and includes fluid openings 284 forintroduction of fluid into surgical device 200. In one exemplaryarrangement, fluid openings 284 may be formed through a mounting plate285 carried by hub member 263. A fluid connector (not shown) isconfigured to engage mounting plate 285 and cooperate with openings 284to deliver fluid through shaft member 214.

In another exemplary arrangement (best seen in FIG. 13), mounting plate285 is eliminated from hub 263′. Ports 288 that are connected to fluidopenings 284 are formed through the hub 263′ to which fluid tubes 291 aand 291 b may be connected. In one exemplary arrangement, the fluidtubes 291 a and 291 b may be glued directly to the ports 288. In anotherexemplary arrangement, the ports 288 may be configured with upwardlyextending hose barbs (not shown) to which fluid tubes 291 a and 291 bmay be disposed over.

In one exemplary arrangement, hub member 263 defines a chamber 287 (see,FIG. 12) therein that is configured to receive an inner mounting member294 (see FIG. 9A). Inner mounting member 294 will be discussed ingreater detail below. As seen in FIGS. 10A-B, Chamber 287 may beconfigured with a step 296 that engages with a radially extending edge303 of inner mounting member 294. Hub member 263 may further define alateral opening 295 (FIG. 12). In one exemplary configuration, an endflange 305 may be disposed on proximal end 277. In one exemplaryconfiguration, end flange 305 includes extension members 306 disposed oneither side of lateral opening 295. Extension members 306 may eachinclude openings 307. The openings 307 are configured to receivesuitable fluid tubing (such as that shown in FIG. 13) that mates withfluid openings 284.

Inner mounting member 294 is configured to be positioned in chamber 287of hub member 263. Inner mounting member 294 includes a body member 297which defines first and second sealing grooves 293 a, 293 b and a distalsleeve segment 298. An electrode opening 300 is formed through an outersurface of inner mounting member 294. Electrode opening 300 aligns withlateral opening 295 to provide a pathway for electrodes 216. In oneexemplary arrangement, a stabilizing member 301 is configured to bereceived within electrode opening 300. In another exemplary arrangement,stabilizing member is integrally formed with the inner mounting member294. Stabilizing member 301 includes mounting channels 302 that areconfigured to secure electrodes 216 within shaft member 214 and directends of electrodes 216 to a connection mount 290 formed on an end cap305. Connection mount 290 is configured to receive a connection port (asshown, for example, in FIG. 13) to operatively connect electrodes 216 toan electrical source for energizing electrodes 216. A proximal end ofelectrodes 216 will be received within the connection port to facilitatedelivery of energy.

Sealing members 309 and 310 are received within sealing grooves 293 aand 293 b, respectively, and provides a seal between inner mountingmember 294 and sleeve 262 so as to provide a sealed fluid pathway forirrigation lumens disposed around or through electrodes 216, includingirrigation lumens 44, 144, 240, 540, and 640. (see, e.g., FIG. 11). Anadditional sealing member 311 is positioned between a rib 292 and adistal end of inner mounting member 294. Sealing member 311 cooperateswith sealing member 293 b to provide a fluid pathway that is incommunication with fluid lumen 38. Rib 292 separates a flush chamber 326(which is in communication with flush opening 266) and vacuum chamber282.

A shaft mount 312 is received within inner mounting member 294. Shaftmount 312 is generally hollow. End cap 305 includes an aspiration mount314 having an opening 316. The shaft mount 312 is disposed throughopening 316. Shaft mount 312 is in fluid communication with proximal end258 of shaft member 214, and in particular with aspiration lumen 36.Shaft mount 312 is configured to be connected to a suitable vacuumsource. An outer surface of shaft mount 312 may include a mountingcollar 317. Mounting collar 317 positions shaft mount 312 within innermounting member 294, as well as allow for rotation of shaft mount 312relative to end cap 305. A seal member 319 may be positioned aroundshaft mount 312, within a cavity 321 of end cap 305. Seal member 319serves to direct aspiration to aspiration lumen 36. Area 323, adjacentto stabilizing member 301, is filled with adhesive (not shown) or othersuitable material so ensure that aspiration is directed to aspirationlumen 36. Further, to isolate fluid delivery from aspiration, areas 325and 327 are filled with adhesive on either side of a fluid channel 329formed in inner mounting member 294 that is in communication with one ofopenings 284 and irrigation opening 265, similar to what is shown anddescribed in FIG. 7B.

Flush chamber 326 is provided between rib 292 and radially extendingedge 303 of inner mounting member 294. Flush chamber 326 is incommunication with one of the openings 284 through sleeve 262, as wellas flush opening 266 that is formed within shaft member 214. Flushopening 266 is in communication with fluid lumen 38. In one embodimentand may be sized to provide a controlled flow rate of fluid through thefluid lumen 38.

Control valve 228 comprises vent opening 226 and slidable sleeve 232.Vent opening 226 is in communication with vacuum chamber 282. Slidablesleeve 232 is configured to be selectively moved to cover or uncovervent opening 226 to immediately vary aspiration being delivered throughaspiration lumen 36. More specifically, in the arrangement depicted inFIG. 10A, when it is desired to have full aspiration, slidable sleeve232 is moved distally to completely cover vent opening 226. When it isdesired to reduce aspiration pressure, slidable sleeve 232 is moved in aproximal direction to at least partially expose vent opening 226,thereby venting vacuum chamber 282. When slidable sleeve 232 is moved soas to completely expose vent opening 226, there is no aspiration beingdelivered to aspiration lumen 36. This configuration is advantageous inthat it permits a user to immediately release tissue while in use, aswell as reduce aspiration as needed. Due to its position on handpiece212, slidable sleeve 232 is easy to manipulate with a single hand fromany orientation of the user gripping the device, also providing improvedease of use.

In one exemplary arrangement, vent opening 226 has a teardrop shape.This shape permits a controlled reduction of aspiration as slidablesleeve 232 moves proximally. However, it is understood that other shapesof vent opening 226 may be employed.

An alternative arrangement for control valve 228′ is shown in FIG. 13.Control valve 228′ also comprises slidable sleeve 232 and vent opening226. In this arrangement, however, slidable sleeve 232 is either biasedtoward distal end 276 of sleeve 262 with a spring mechanism (such asthat shown in phantom in FIG. 10A) or permitted to freely float oversleeve 262. When permitted to freely float, as surgical device 200′ isused distal end 276 will be oriented in a downward direction, slidablesleeve 262 will automatically slide toward the distal end 276. Thisaction will completely uncover vent opening 226, thereby ensuring thatno vacuum is delivered.

However, when vacuum is desired to be delivered to the distal end 276,the slidable sleeve 232 is moved in a proximal direction. In the controlvalve 228′, the vent opening 226 is oriented so that the widest part ofthe teardrop shape is oriented toward the distal end 276 such that asslidable sleeve 232 is moved over the vent opening 226, the widest partwill be covered first.

As outer member 264 is not required, a stiffening member 215 may beprovided. In one exemplary arrangement, stiffening member 215 may extendsubstantially the length of the shaft member 214. More specifically,stiffening member 215 may be disposed in fluid lumen 38, as illustratedin FIG. 11. Stiffening member 215 assists in enabling the shaft member214 to hold its shape.

As a further alternative, the electrodes 216 may be annealed. Annealingthe electrodes 216 will assist in enabling the shaft member 214 to holdits shape. Further, annealing will also permit the user to selectivelyshape the shaft member 214, and once formed, for that shape to bemaintained. While the electrodes 216 may be annealed throughout itslength, it is also contemplated that the electrodes 216 are onlyselectively annealed toward the distal aspect, i.e., those portions ofthe electrodes 216 that are disposed within the shaft member 214, butdistal of the cap member 260.

Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, the proximal end 258 of shaft member 214is configured with a land area 320 having grooves 322 formed in a topsurface thereof. Grooves 322 extend into an end face 324 of shaft member214 and join fluid openings 44 (or 144, 544, 644). Electrodes 216 areconfigured to be received within fluid openings 44.

In operation, fluid is delivered into opening 284 (via a fluid tubingconnected thereto) and communicated into fluid channel 329 so as todirect irrigation to electrode channels 40. In this manner, fluid exitsaround electrodes 16, 116, 216, 316, 416, 516, 616, 674 duringoperation, so as to provide metered irrigation to the surgical site,thereby creating a “wet field”. Fluid may further be selectivelyprovided to the surgical field through the other opening 284 (via afluid tubing connected thereto). The other opening 284 is incommunication with a flush chamber 326. A flush opening 266 formed influid lumen 38 is arranged within the flush chamber 326. In this manner,additional fluid may be optionally delivered through fluid lumen 38 topower flush a surgical site, thereby enabling clearing of surgical site,as well as assisting in locating the source of bleeding.

Referring to FIG. 13, as discussed above, proximal end 277′ of sleeve262′ includes a hub 263′, which include fluid openings 288. Fluid tubes291 a and 291 b may be directly fixedly secured to fluid openings 288.As is shown in FIG. 10B, one of fluid tubes 291 a is operativelyconnected to flush chamber 326 via flush opening 266, while the other offluid tubes 291 b is operatively connected to fluid channel 329 so as todirect irrigation to fluid lumen 38.

An end cap 305′ slides over a proximal end of hub 263′ until end cap305′ is positioned adjacent fluid openings 288. End cap 305′ isconfigured with an outer sleeve portion 402 that is generally the samediameter as sleeve 262′. Instead of laterally spaced extension members306 on hub 263, end cap 305′ is provided with a fluid retention member404. Fluid retention member 404 includes an opening therethrough 406that is sized to receive fluid tubes 291 a, and 291 b therein. Anopening is formed in the proximal end of end cap 305′, similar to thatdepicted in FIG. 10B. The opening is configured to be connected to anaspiration tubing 408 to deliver vacuum to vacuum chamber 282 viaaspiration lumen 36.

End cap 305′ further includes a connection mount 290′ disposed on theproximal end of end cap 305′. The connection mount 290′ may beintegrally formed with end cap 305′ and is configured to receive aconnection port 410 to operatively connect electrodes 216 to anelectrical source for energizing electrodes 216.

A further alternative arrangement for a bipolar surgical device 500 isshown in FIGS. 14A-14B. Bipolar surgical device 500 is similar todevices 10 and 200 in that it includes a handpiece 512, a shaft member514 extending distally from handpiece 512 and electrodes 16, 116, 216,316, 416, 516, 616, 674 (as best seen in FIGS. 2A-2N) extending distallyfrom shaft member 514. Operatively connected to handpiece 512 is anaspiration line 518 and a cautery supply cable 522.

In this embodiment, however, a single fluid delivery line 520 isoperatively connected to the handpiece 512. Fluid delivery line 520 hasa distal end 522 that is secured to a fluid opening 584 and a proximalend 524 that is connected to a connector element 526. Connector element524 includes two inlets 528 a and 528 b and a single outlet 530.Proximal end 524 of fluid delivery line 520 is fixedly attached tooutlet 530.

Connected to inlet 528 a is fluid line 591 a. An opposite end of fluidline 591 a may be connected to a one-way check valve 532. A second fluidline 593 a is connected to check valve 532. Second fluid line 593 aterminates in a fitting 534. Fitting 534 is configured to be connectedto a fluid source. In operation, once a fluid source is connected to thefitting 534, fluid is delivered through check valve 532, into fluid line591 a, through connector 526 and into fluid delivery line 520. Fluid isthen fed into electrode channels 40, 240 so as to exit shaft member 514adjacent the electrodes tips. This configuration allows continuousdelivery or irrigation of fluid at a surgical site so as to create a wetsurgical field. Because the check valve 532 is a one-way check valve,fluid is prevented from back flushing through the check valve 532.

Connected to inlet 528 b is another fluid line 591 b. Fluid line 591 bterminates in a fitting 536. Fitting 536 is also configured to beconnected to a secondary fluid source. When fitting 536 is connected tothe secondary fluid source, fluid is delivered through fluid line 591 b,through connector 526 and into fluid delivery line 520. Fluid is thenfed into electrode channels 40, 240 so as to exit shaft member 214adjacent the electrode tips. However, the secondary fluid source isconfigured to selectively deliver a burst of fluid, so as to power flushthe surgical site. Power flushing the surgical site in operation isbeneficial to clear the surgical field and locate bleeding sources inthe surgical field.

The arrangement in FIGS. 14A and 14B differs from the arrangement shownin FIGS. 10A and 10B in that only a lumen is provided in shaft member514 of surgical device 500 as opposed to fluid lumen 38 and electrodechannels 40 provided in shaft member 214. More specifically, in thearrangement of surgical device 500 two sources of irrigation aredelivered through electrode channels 40 to provided constant irrigationat the surgical site, as well as provide a selective power flush throughthe same electrode channels 40. This configuration thereby allows areduced diameter shaft 514, thereby providing improved visualizationcapability at the surgical site.

FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate different configurations for the length ofshafts 514A, 514B, 514C. For example, FIG. 15A has a relatively shortlength, as compared to the arrangement shown in FIG. 15B. In thearrangement shown in FIG. 15B, the increase length of shaft member 514Bmay be advantageous for surgical areas that are seated deeply within thebody. As illustrated in FIG. 15C, the shaft member 514C may beconfigured to be somewhat flexible so as to allow a user to custom bendthe shaft member 514C.

Referring to FIGS. 16A-16B, an optional stiffening adapter 600 isillustrated that may be attached to a surgical device. While surgicaldevice 200′ is depicted in FIGS. 16A-16B, it is understood thatstiffening adapter 600 may be used with other embodiments describedherein, as well as other surgical devices.

Stiffening adapter 600 comprises cap member 602, stiffening sleeve 604,a sleeve retainer 606 and a seal member 608. The seal member 608 ispositioned about a seal mount 610 formed on a proximal end of the sleeveretainer 606. The seal member 608 is sized to have an inner diameterthat is normally smaller than an outside diameter of the sleeve mount610. When positioned on the seal mount, the inner diameter of the sealmember 608 enlarges so as to frictionally engage the seal mount 610.

The sleeve retainer 606 has distal 612 and proximal openings 614 and maybe tapered such that the distal end is smaller than the proximal end. Alocking tab 616 may be formed on an outside surface of the sleeveretainer 606. The sleeve retainer 606 is positioned within the capmember 602 (as is the seal member 608). In one exemplary arrangement, aportion of the sleeve retainer 606 extends distally outwardly from adistal face 618 of the cap member 602.

The cap member 602 is open on the proximal end so as to partiallyreceive a distal end face of the surgical device 200′, similar to bodymember 267. The cap member 602 further defines a channel mount 620 intowhich the sleeve retainer 606 is positioned. In one exemplaryarrangement, the locking tab 616 may cooperate with a locking detent(not shown) formed in the channel mount 620 so as to lock the sleeveretainer 606 to the cap member 602, such as in a snap-fit arrangement.

The stiffening sleeve 604 is defined by a proximal end 622 and a distalend 624. The proximal end 622 is mounted within the sleeve retainer 606.The stiffening sleeve 604 includes a channel 626 that extends betweenthe proximal and distal ends 622 and 624. The diameter of the channel626 is sized to be slightly larger than a cross-section dimension ofshaft member 214. The stiffening sleeve is constructed of a materialthat is more rigid than the shaft member 214. One example of a suitablematerial is stainless steel, though it is contemplated that othersuitable materials may also be used.

In one exemplary arrangement the material for the stiffening sleeve mayhave a degree of malleability that allows a user to impart a bendingforce to achieve a desired bend in the stiffening sleeve. Once bent, thestiffening sleeve will retain the shape of the bend once the bendingforce is removed. Alternatively, the stiffening sleeve may be providedwith a bend preformed. Providing a bend to direct the distal end 303 ofthe surgical device 200′ away from a longitudinal axis of the surgicaldevice 200′ advantageously improves a line of sight for using thesurgical device. This is especially true if the surgical device 202′ isused in a delivery cannula, such as that disclosed in commonly ownedU.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/444,713, the contents of which areincorporated by reference in its entirety.

The stiffening sleeve 604 may also be provided with an anti-reflectivesurface. In one exemplary arrangement, the anti-reflective surface maybe formed by texturing the outer surface of the stiffening sleeve 604.The anti-reflective surface serves to prevent glare from illuminationsources, thereby reducing eye fatigue during use of the surgical device200′.

The cap member 602 is attached to the distal end of the surgical device200′. In one exemplary arrangement, the cap member 602 is fixedlyattached such that the stiffening adapter 600 is permanently attached tothe distal end of the surgical device 200.′ The fixed attachment may beaccomplished by a variety of different mechanisms. Examples include, butare not limited to using glue, ultrasonic welding and/or a snap-fitarrangement.

Alternatively, the stiffening adapter 600 may be configured to beselectively detachable. For example, the cap member 602 may bethreadingly engaged with the distal end of the surgical device 200′. Insuch an example, the interior of the cap member 602, as well as aportion of the outer surface of the distal end of the surgical device200′ would need to include corresponding threads. Other suitable methodsof selectively attaching the stiffening adapter 600 to the surgicaldevice 200′ include using a keyed connection or other mechanicalattachment mechanism.

It will be appreciated that the surgical instrument and methodsdescribed herein have broad applications. The foregoing embodiments werechosen and described in order to illustrate principles of the methodsand apparatuses as well as some practical applications. The precedingdescription enables others skilled in the art to utilize methods andapparatuses in various embodiments and with various modifications as aresuited to the particular use contemplated. In accordance with theprovisions of the patent statutes, the principles and modes of operationof this disclosure have been explained and illustrated in exemplaryembodiments.

It is intended that the scope of the present methods and apparatuses bedefined by the following claims. However, it must be understood thatthis disclosure may be practiced otherwise than is specificallyexplained and illustrated without departing from its spirit or scope. Itshould be understood by those skilled in the art that variousalternatives to the embodiments described herein may be employed inpracticing the claims without departing from the spirit and scope asdefined in the following claims. The scope of the disclosure should bedetermined, not with reference to the above description, but shouldinstead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along withthe full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It isanticipated and intended that future developments will occur in the artsdiscussed herein, and that the disclosed systems and methods will beincorporated into such future examples. Furthermore, all terms used inthe claims are intended to be given their broadest reasonableconstructions and their ordinary meanings as understood by those skilledin the art unless an explicit indication to the contrary is made herein.In particular, use of the singular articles such as “a,” “the,” “said,”etc. should be read to recite one or more of the indicated elementsunless a claim recites an explicit limitation to the contrary. It isintended that the following claims define the scope of the invention andthat the method and apparatus within the scope of these claims and theirequivalents be covered thereby. In sum, it should be understood that theinvention is capable of modification and variation and is limited onlyby the following claims.

1-29. (canceled)
 30. A surgical device, comprising: a housing; a shaftmember at least partially disposed within the housing, the shaft memberincluding a pair of electrode channels that open at a distal end of theshaft member, wherein the electrode channels are positioned adjacent toone another; a pair of electrodes configured to deliver energy, whereinone of the pair of electrodes are configured to be disposed in eachelectrode channel such that distal ends of each of the electrodes arearranged to protrude from the distal end of the shaft member; and astiffening adapter having a stiffening sleeve, wherein the stiffeningadapter is attached to a distal end of the housing; wherein the shaftmember extends distally from a distal end of the stiffening sleeve. 31.The surgical device of claim 30, wherein the shaft member is selectivelyformable by a user.
 32. The surgical device of claim 30, wherein thestiffening adapter is permanently attached to the distal end of thehousing.
 33. The surgical device of claim 32, wherein the stiffeningadapter is glued to the distal end of the housing.
 34. The surgicaldevice of claim 32, wherein the stiffening adapter is ultrasonicallywelded to the distal end of the housing.
 35. The surgical device ofclaim 30, wherein the stiffening adapter is selectively attached to thedistal end of the housing.
 36. The surgical device of claim 35, whereinthe stiffening adapter is threadingly engaged with the distal end of thehousing.
 37. The surgical device of claim 30, wherein the stiffeningsleeve has a preformed bend.
 38. The surgical device of claim 30,wherein the stiffening sleeve is selectively formable to a desired bend.39. The surgical device of claim 30, wherein the stiffening sleeve hasan anti-reflective outer surface surface.
 40. The surgical device ofclaim 39, wherein an outer surface of the stiffening sleeve is textured.41. The surgical device of claim 30, wherein the stiffening adapterfurther comprises a cap member and a sleeve retainer, wherein the sleeveretainer is positioned within the cap member and a proximal member issecured within the sleeve retainer.
 42. The surgical device of claim 41,wherein the sleeve retainer further comprises a locking member thatcooperates with a corresponding locking member formed on the cap memberto secure the sleeve retainer within the cap member.
 43. The surgicaldevice of claim 41, wherein the sleeve retainer is tapered outwardlyfrom a distal end to a proximal end of the sleeve retainer.
 44. Thesurgical device of claim 41, wherein the sleeve retainer furthercomprises a seal mount positioned on a proximal end of the sleeveretainer and a seal member that is configured to be mounted to the sealmount.
 45. A surgical device, comprising: a housing; a shaft member atleast partially disposed within the housing, the shaft member includinga pair of electrode channels that open at a distal end of the shaftmember, wherein the electrode channels are positioned adjacent to oneanother; and a pair of electrodes configured to deliver energy, whereinone of the pair of electrodes are configured to be disposed in eachelectrode channel such that distal ends of each of the electrodes arearranged to protrude from the distal end of the shaft member; whereinthe electrodes are annealed to allow for selective forming of a shape ofthe shaft member, and once formed, for the shape to be maintained. 46.The surgical device of claim 45, wherein the electrodes are selectivelyannealed toward a distal end of the electrodes.